The mopane worm (Gonimbrasia belina Westwood): a review of its biology, ecology and utilisation in Zimbabwe

Abstract

The study was aimed at reviewing literature related to traditional mopane production as well as exploring the potential for diapause termination to allow for continuous year-round production. Larvae of mopane worms (Gonimbrasia belina) are highly nutritious and popular food for many people in Southern Africa. Improved and sustained supplies of mopane worms in urban and rural areas can potentially address food and nutrition security problems of the mopane worm harvesters and producers financially. This also has the added advantage of improving people’s access to high-protein food. However, harvesting ofG. belina larvae takes place during a short period (main harvesting period is from November to December and a smaller second harvest April-May). In addition, the availability ofG. belina is a function of parasitism, time of the year, and amount of rainfall, making the production not only seasonal but also erratic and unreliable. The absence of a regulatory and monitoring policy framework that protectsG. belina from over harvesting and over exploitation is also a major concern. These problems, coupled with the seasonal nature of the production hinders all year round harvesting and supply. Findings from this study reveal that the literature is outdated, scant and highlights the need for more research to be conducted on the species. Furthermore, the findings suggest that mopane worms are a significant source of protein for vulnerable population groups, capable of addressing their nutritional protein and livelihood needs. To this end, the paper highlights opportunities for further research and the optimisation of production processes.